INS Sudarshini Departs for Portugal After Successful Month-Long Visit to the US
Indian Navy’s sail training vessel concludes month-long participation in America’s 250th Independence celebrations, strengthening global naval cooperation through the Lokayan 26 voyage.
Washington, July 27: The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini has departed the United States for Ponta Delgada in Portugal’s Azores, marking the successful completion of its month long visit to America under the ongoing Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition. The vessel participated in the United States’ 250th Independence anniversary celebrations while promoting India’s maritime heritage and strengthening international naval partnerships.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the ship sailed from Boston on July 25 after concluding a series of high-profile engagements across several American ports. The next leg of the voyage will take the vessel to Portugal, where it will continue its mission of fostering maritime goodwill and showcasing India’s seafaring traditions on the global stage.
During its stay in the United States, INS Sudarshini represented India at the prestigious SAIL 250 celebrations and the International Naval Review 250, participating in events held in Norfolk, Baltimore, New York and Boston. The ship welcomed senior officials, members of the Indian diaspora and naval representatives from several countries, creating opportunities for professional exchanges and cultural interaction.
The Defence Ministry said these engagements highlighted India’s commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation and expanding friendly ties with partner nations through naval diplomacy.
Commanded by Commander Ravikanth Nandoori, INS Sudarshini also took part in SAIL250 Maryland and the Airshow Baltimore, which commemorated the 250th anniversary of American Independence by bringing together tall ships, naval vessels and aviation displays from around the world.
INS Sudarshini is one of the Indian Navy’s premier sail training vessels and serves as a platform for developing leadership and seamanship skills among naval cadets. The three-masted barque measures 54 metres in length and carries 20 sails with a total sail area of approximately 1,035 square metres. Its complex rigging includes nearly 7.5 kilometres of rope and 1.5 kilometres of steel wire, reflecting the traditional craftsmanship of sailing ships.
Designed to operate under both sail and engine power, the vessel carries a crew comprising five officers, 31 sailors and 30 cadets, enabling extended training missions lasting up to 20 days at sea without requiring port support.
The Lokayan 26 expedition began on January 20 when INS Sudarshini departed Kochi on a long-distance transoceanic voyage aimed at promoting maritime outreach, enhancing naval cooperation and reinforcing India’s historical connection with the seas.
Earlier in the mission, the ship completed its trans-Atlantic crossing and reached Antigua on May 27, before proceeding to the United States for the anniversary celebrations.
With its journey now continuing towards Portugal, INS Sudarshini remains an important symbol of India’s maritime diplomacy, reflecting the country’s growing engagement with international partners while preserving its centuries old seafaring legacy.
